Timmey Richard Hicks

Timmey Richard Hicks, 65, of Ottawa, passed away peacefully, March 10, 2024 at Lightways Hospice Care in Joliet, surrounded by loved ones.

Tim, affectionately known as “Hicksey” was born on February 9, 1959, to Clifton and Catherine (Eich) Hicks in Ottawa, Illinois.

Hicksey was well known in the community for his commitment to youth sports, coaching, and teaching baseball to children and adolescents. He instilled in them not just the skills of the game but also the values of playing it the right way. His teams were consistently top contenders, a testament to his skill and dedication as a coach. His passion for sports was not limited to coaching; he also made his mark by winning numerous championships in city recreational softball and basketball, playing with vigor and sportsmanship for many years with and against his brothers and cousins. His passion for sports was deeply rooted in his childhood, spent in the company of his Uncle Dick. These formative years were filled with countless hours at basketball games, where he and Uncle Dick would keep score together, forging a love for the game and a bond that would last a lifetime.

A fervent fan of the St. Louis Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers, Hicksey's love for both of these teams was paralleled by his enjoyment of fishing and creating cherished memories with his grandchildren. He is survived by his children, T.J. (Ashley) Hicks, Lacey (Adam) Paul, & Stephanie (Nick) Kennedy, his grandchildren and joys of his life, Nolan, Julian, Kaydee, Kolton, Karsyn, Kai, Christopher, Beckham, expected grandson Jacob, Drake & Lydia. His mother Catherine Hicks and his siblings Steve (Julie) Hicks, Kathy (Al) Mattes, Mike Hicks, and Laurie (Donna) Hicks, as well as many nieces and nephews and close friends.

He was preceded in death by his father Clifton Hicks, brothers Terry Hicks & Danny Hicks, as well as multiple aunts and uncles.

He was a testament to the idea that the true measure of a man lies not in his achievements but in the love he spreads and the lives he touches.

As we navigate the days ahead without Tim’s physical presence, we find comfort in the imprints of his spirit left on each of us whom he cared for so deeply. In commemorating his journey, let us turn to the comforting words of Psalm 34:18: "The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit." Hicksey's path showed us that even in times of hardship and sorrow, there is a presence that holds us close, offering solace and strength. His life serves as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, encouraged by the promise of companionship and support in our moments of need. May we all remember his legacy by holding tight to this assurance, finding peace in the knowledge that we are never alone in our struggles.

As we bid farewell, a celebration of his life will be held at a later date. Family and friends will be notified of the arrangements to come together, share memories, and celebrate the joy he brought into our lives.

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